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In the quiet halls of Bedford Green on the VA Medical Center campus in Bedford, Mass., resides an individual whose life story encapsulates the strength of the human spirit and the healing

power of music. Ray Fernandes, once the drummer and background vocalist for the renowned Boston rock band The Atlantics, is preparing to be inducted into the New England Music Hall of Fame

on September 30th. Ray Fernandes' connection to music was nurtured from an early age, thanks to the influence of his father. "My dad used to play records around the house. He was a

pretty decent singer. My connection to music came from his influence and playing records every weekend," he reminisced. This early exposure laid the foundation for his future musical

endeavors. In 1977, Fernandes joined The Atlantics just as they were becoming integral to Boston's emerging punk scene. His audition for the band was fueled by a one-way taxi ride and

unwavering confidence. The Atlantics shared stages with iconic bands like The Cars, The Ramones, and Cheap Trick, leaving an indelible mark on the city's rock history. After departing

from The Atlantics in 1979, Fernandes embarked on a new musical journey, forming the synthpop band Primary Colors. Despite his musical successes, life took a challenging turn, leading him

into a homeless situation during a period of personal turmoil. "What's really hard is I've lived most of my adult life with somebody else. So then I was on my own. It's

devastating and scary. I still wake up every morning with fear. When you're alone you have too much time to think of bad things," Fernandes candidly expressed. During this trying

time, the VA played a pivotal role in Fernandes' life. "The VA has treated me well. It's fair to say if it wasn't for the VA I'd be dead." he acknowledged. The

VA provided him with not only a physical space but also the support he needed to rebuild his life. Fernandes' journey comes full circle as he prepares for induction into the New England

Music Hall of Fame. His recognition acknowledges not only his musical contributions but also his resilience through life's challenges. "After everything I've been through, in

a homeless situation and to go from that, to this now… I really needed this," he shared with heartfelt gratitude. Now a resident at Bedford Green, Fernandes continues to draw strength

from his memories and the community he helped shape. He firmly believes in the role of music in connecting Veterans, saying, "I think these things that I did, it plays a big part in

keeping me alive.” On September 30th, amidst music legends like Lizzie Borden & The Axes, Mach Bell, and many others, Ray Fernandes will stand tall, celebrated not only for his

influential career but for his unwavering spirit and the inspiration he offers to fellow Veterans who might be facing their own struggles. His story is a testament to the healing power of

music and the support systems that can help individuals rebuild their lives, no matter how daunting the journey may seem.